Messfeier Am 30. April 2023, 10 Uhr

In these readings, we are reminded of the importance of listening to the right voice, specifically the voice of the good shepherd, Jesus Christ. The good shepherd is the one who leads us to salvation, healing, and a fulfilled life. But in a world filled with confusion and competing voices, it can be challenging to discern the true voice of the good shepherd.

The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles emphasizes the need to listen to the right voice. Peter speaks to the people and urges them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and repent of their sins. Through this act of conversion and baptism, they receive the gift of the Holy Spirit and become part of the community of believers.

Peter reminds the people that Jesus Christ suffered for them and provided an example for them to follow. Jesus did not retaliate when faced with adversity and insults; instead, he trusted in the righteous judgment of God. Through his crucifixion, Jesus bore the sins of humanity and offered them the opportunity to be freed from their sins and live a life of righteousness. Peter encourages the believers to turn to the shepherd and guardian of their souls, seeking healing and redemption.

The Gospel according to John portrays Jesus as the good shepherd. He compares those who belong to his flock and follow his voice to thieves and robbers. The sheep recognize the voice of the good shepherd and follow him, while they would flee from a stranger whose voice they do not know. Jesus explains that he is not only the shepherd but also the gate for the sheep. It is through him that those who enter are saved and find security and abundant life.

The message of these texts is clear: it is crucial to listen to the right voice. The voice of the good shepherd, Jesus Christ, leads us to salvation, healing, and a fulfilled life. However, there are other voices that seek to mislead, harm, or divert us from our path. Therefore, it is essential that we remain attentive and discern which voice is truly that of the good shepherd.

To do this, we must become familiar with Jesus Christ, studying his words and teachings, and connecting with him through regular prayer and community. Only then can we learn to distinguish his voice from the voices of the world and choose the path that leads us to true freedom, aliveness, and abundance. May the good shepherd always accompany us and guide us on his path of love and life. Amen.

Listening to the Good Shepherd in a World of Noise

Living in a world filled with noise and distractions, it can be challenging to hear the voice of the good shepherd. The cacophony of competing voices, opinions, and ideologies can easily drown out the gentle yet authoritative voice of Jesus Christ. To truly hear and follow the good shepherd, we must learn to discern his voice amidst the chaos.

Young people, in particular, face the overwhelming task of navigating a world filled with conflicting messages and pressures. It is crucial that they do not overlook or disregard the voice of Jesus when he calls them to follow him in his Church. They must develop the ability to distinguish between the voices of selfishness, destruction, and discord and the loving, comforting, and life-affirming voice of Jesus.

As we struggle to discern the voice of the good shepherd, we can find solace and guidance in prayer, scripture study, and the sacraments. By immersing ourselves in these spiritual practices, we open our hearts and minds to the voice of Jesus Christ. We come to understand that he has a plan for our lives, and that plan is aimed at giving us abundant life.

We must also have the courage to trust in our own calling and to believe that the good shepherd always accompanies us on our journey. This requires a deep sense of faith, an unwavering trust that Jesus is with us, guiding us every step of the way. In a world that often demands conformity and discourages individuality, it takes great courage to heed the voice of the good shepherd and follow the path he has set before us.

Let us pray that young people may hear and boldly respond to the voice of Jesus as he calls them to follow him in his Church. May their hearts be open to his message of life and love, and may they not be deaf to his call but instead embrace it with joy and enthusiasm.

The Good Shepherd: A Symbol of Hope and Salvation

The figure of the good shepherd holds significant spiritual meaning in the Christian faith. It serves as a powerful symbol of hope and salvation, reminding us of the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for us and his guidance in leading us on the right path.

The reading mentions a pilgrimage to Vierzehnheiligen, highlighting the celebration of the good shepherd. The good shepherd is depicted as Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us and leads us on the right path. In this text, prayers are offered for the people in Ukraine, the Holy Land, and all crisis-stricken areas of the world, that they may hear the comforting voice of the good shepherd.

Prayers are also offered for the deceased, that the good shepherd may call them into his kingdom. Through Jesus Christ, we have been given a good shepherd, and we are asked to listen to his voice. Prayers are requested for the fulfillment of the prayers spoken and carried in the heart.

The text contains moments of applause and laughter, indicating that it may have been presented in the form of a prayer song or a liturgical celebration. It is a joyful and lively expression of faith.

The text also includes a prayer for God to fulfill the work of salvation through the celebration of the Easter mysteries and to make this celebration a source of eternal joy. Thanks are given to God for the past, present, and future. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is referred to as a new beginning and the redemption of the fallen world.

The text proclaims God as holy and great, declaring that all his works proclaim his life. It prays for God to sanctify the gifts offered during this liturgical act, transforming them into the body and blood of his Son.

The mystery of faith is proclaimed, reminding us that Jesus died and rose for us. It emphasizes that Jesus offers the sacrifice of reconciliation and seeks peace for the whole world through this sacrifice.

Prayers are offered for the Church, the Pope, bishops, priests, and deacons, that they may be strengthened in faith and love. Peace and healing for the Church on its journey through time are also requested. Prayers are also offered for the departed, that they may be received into the glory of God.

The Lord's Prayer is recited, and deliverance from evil is sought. It asks for the return of Jesus Christ and expresses confidence in his coming.

The sign of peace is exchanged, and prayers are said for peace and reconciliation. The Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, is shown. It is a reminder that Jesus is the good shepherd who gave his life for his flock.

The text concludes with the wish for believers to have a blessed Sunday and a joyful feast day. It mentions that the celebration of the good shepherd is particularly associated with a pilgrimage to Vierzehnheiligen in Franconia.